1,698 SC employees negative in Covid test

ATOTAL of 1,698 Supreme Court personnel including five justices have tested negative for the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) after undergoing rapid tests that started on May 26. SC spokesman Brian Keith Hosaka said the rapid testing will continue until all of the 2,700 officials and employees have been tested as part of the SC’S complementary efforts to the government’s drive against Covid-19. “As of now, five justices have undergone rapid testing. We could probably expect more as they report to the SC,” Hosaka said. Chief Justice Diosdado M. Peralta personally supervised the first day of rapid testing on May 26 in two medical tents set up at the two SC buildings on Padre Faura Street in Ermita, Manila. The SC’S dignitaries’ lounge is also being used as testing center. The rapid tests are being conducted by SC’S medical personnel who were provided with personal protective equipment (PPE), he said. The Chief Justice assured the public that the SC has enough rapid test kits for all officials and employees. Proper arrangements have also been made with concerned government agencies should anyone be found positive for Covid-19 during the rapid test, he added. The SC has also distributed face masks and rubbing alcohol to employees and offices as part of its health protocols. Peralta had earlier announced that all courts nationwide will be fully operational starting June 1, although there would be limits on the number of people allowed inside court premises. Cases, pleadings and required documents may still be filed either manually or electronically.